Enhancing Patient Perspectives During Disclosure Conversations After the Occurrence of Unanticipated Outcomes

Abstract

Abstract This problem-based learning discussion (PBLD) centers on the concepts associated with the development and delivery of an effective disclosure conversation after the occurrence of an unanticipated outcome. This PBLD provides guidance for an anesthesiology health care provider when he/she is faced with a significant unanticipated outcome. An investigation of the events of how the unanticipated outcome occurred along with proposed solutions (to prevent reoccurrence) is initiated. The investigation concludes with potential solutions to any system issue(s) that may have contributed to the unanticipated outcome. This allows the health care provider the opportunity to offer solutions to the patient in the attempt to ensure that system's issues do not lead to similar circumstances to future patients. Next, the planned delivery of the disclosure conversation (who should attend, who should talk, how to structure the conversation, etc.) is then discussed. This PBLD will have been given four times on a national forum and once on a regional forum. According to evaluations, this disclosure PBLD was considered relevant and was thought to improve patient care. Though cognitive and psychomotor learning opportunities tend to be easier to develop and easier to evaluate, affective-based learning strategies can be much more difficult to assess and evaluate.

Keywords

• Unanticipated Outcomes
• Near Miss
• PBLD
• Disclosure Conversation